Reviews

From Stephen T. Kay (of "The Shield" fame) comes a Get Carter 're-make', but viewers shouldn't treat this as a re-make of the film - rather a modern re-interpretation of the book "Jack's Return Home" (1970). The basic premise is the same, an injustice followed by revenge - but this film is an excellent work in it's own separate right. The limited connections between the films are the book, the film title and a few references to the 1971 film (and Caine's presence in both). There is a lot of "film snobbery" out there about Stallone and it's true that he's had his fair share of c*** films, but this isn't one of them. His acting would put a lot of people to shame, in fact it's a superb performance (also see "Copland"). His presence dominates his scenes, only Caine and Mickey Rourke's presence competes. The supporting actors are very good too and the storyline is such that if you blink you'll miss the thread. People who say "I didn't get it", frankly just need to see the film again. It definitely deserves multiple viewings. Also, look how many comments the film has - always a good guide as to whether a film has made an impact or not - twice as many as the original and 2/3 as many as Taxi Driver.....

Not to mention the film is beautifully shot, brilliantly edited and has a Greeaaat soundtrack!

After what seems like an eternity along with rumours that "It will never happen because Jonathon Gash is against it" etc - it has finally happened. The UK's BBC have just announced the DVD release date for the first series of ten episodes (17th May 2004). It will be region 2 from the BBC, presumably the other regions will be catered for elsewhere. I hope the later series will follow, probably depending on how well this first one sells. So it's up to us, Lovejoy fans - let's support it, and tell your friends! I really hope (are you listening?) that the full 71 episodes will be released in time, along with the Christmas specials. Not only that, but how about an 'extras' DVD with interviews with the cast, Jonathon Gash, TV screenplay writers. Ian McShane, of course (!!), who having read the books helped to get it televised (of course it's a different slant on the Lovejoy character which was born in the books, but which is valid in it's own right in my view). Also location information, stills and any other trivia would be great. Believe me, I would buy it!!

This TV series brings back fond memories of the late 80's, early 90's. Happen to have an interest in Antiques but this was completely unnecessary in order to enjoy the series. Lovejoy the Antiques dealer was an interesting combination of amateur Detective, righter of wrongs, incurable romantic/ womaniser (!), and occasional con-man which gave him a slightly dark edge - though he would generally only con other con-men or unsavoury wealthy types with so much money they would hardly notice it. This was a programme which at the time seemed to out-shine all others. The first series in 1986 was separated by a five year gap to 1991 for the second series. It only returned due to huge public demand in the UK. In the end six series were produced though some of the old characters had sadly disappeared by the last series. Why do I think Lovejoy was so good? Because it was refreshingly innocent - there was no 'body count' (well a very occasional murder), lots of good-natured banter between friends and very varied story-lines. Plus Lovejoy seemed to lead a rather enviable life, sometimes struggling financially, other times with a wind-fall but always surrounded by good friends and enjoying the hell out of life. And what country-side - the beautiful green fields and villages of England's East Anglia! There were 71 episodes to enjoy, and it does get repeated here and there - but only a few episodes have been released on VHS. Where Oh where are the DVD's??? If you haven't seen it yet and get a chance to see it - do so - it'll leave you with a feel-good factor you won't forget.